New Businesses, New Resources, More Reasons to Love Parker

In this issue you’ll find:

LAUNCHING IN PARKER:
SAFRAN DEFENSE & SPACE INC. HOLDS RIBBON CUTTING AT NEW PARKER FACILITY 


Key share-holders cut symbolic red ribbon which large scissors to celebrate the new Safran Defense & Space, Inc. facility

Address:
15020 Compark Blvd Suite 110, Centennial, CO 80112 

Safran Defense & Space Inc. officially opened its new facility in Parker with a celebratory ribbon cutting on April 11, 2025. The celebration marked a major milestone in Parker’s growing reputation as a hub for advanced aerospace and defense technology. 

“This is our space hub,” said Joe Bogosian, CEO of Safran Defense & Space Inc. “Anything that we have today will be coming here if it's space related.” The Parker facility will initially focus on propulsion systems, but plans are already in motion to expand its scope. 

“We invest in the community. First and foremost, we like to be good corporate citizens and support the community in especially STEM education and veterans efforts.” - Joe Bogosian, CEO

Safran, which operates in 30 countries, selected Parker after a thorough nationwide search. “It narrowed down to Colorado, narrowed down to Douglas County, and absolutely, Parker became an obvious choice,” Bogosian noted. The facility is expected to bring a wide range of high-tech, high-skill jobs to the region, but Safran’s commitment goes beyond business. 

We’re excited to welcome Safran to the Parker business community! 

Large Satellite on display
Large crowd gathers to celebrate Safran Defense & Space, Inc. new facility opening

Joshua Rivero | Mayor
Town of Parker, Colorado

“This is the new central hub of aerospace in Colorado. Saffron, adding to the root base of the existing companies operating here, is just going to amplify the potential we have here in Parker.” 

Joshua Rivero | Mayor
Town of Parker, Colorado

PARKER IS INVESTED IN SUPPORTING LOCAL


Something BIG: Business Improvement Grants

Launched in 2025, Parker Economic Development’s new Business Improvement Grant (BIG) supported 10 local businesses with $200,000 in improvement projects this year. From updated storefronts to vital equipment upgrades, these grants help our businesses thrive and enhance the vibrancy of our community. Congratulations to this year’s recipients! The program is anticipated to return in 2026 pending funding and budget decisions.

Graphic that says "Something B.I.G. is coming for Parker Businesses."
 
example of business exterior before and after exterior touch ups

FLIP Your Businesses Exterior This Summer

P3 Parker’s Facade and Landscape Improvement Program (FLIP) opens for applications this June! If you own a property or business within Parker’s urban renewal areas, this is your chance to apply for funding to enhance your building’s exterior or landscaping. FLIP helps improve curb appeal, attract customers, and revitalize key areas of town.

 

BUSINESS RESOURCES, DATA, & MORE: PARKERED.COM


Haven’t visited our website recently?

At ParkerED.com we’ve been working hard to compile resources for local businesses and those looking to start, locate, or expand a business in Parker. It’s also a source for local economic development news, and information on what the Town of Parker is focused on to improve the economic vitality of our community. Visit our website to find:

  1. Business resources – Including available grants, local and regional programs, state grants, and connections in the community. 

  2. Local data and demographics – Get insights into Parker’s economy, workforce, and market potential

  3. Success stories – Be inspired by local businesses that have found success right here in our community

  4. News and updates – Stay in the loop on new programs, funding opportunities, and business events

Can’t find what you’re looking for? We’d love to help. Call us at 303.841.0353 or email economicdevelopment@parkerco.gov.

tablet displaying the Parkered.com website
 
Woman working from a home office

PARKERPRENEURS:

HOMEGROWN & THRIVING

Hey Parkerpreneurs!

Whether you're crafting, coding, baking, designing, teaching, or building something amazing from your home, we want to hear from you. This short survey helps us learn more about the incredible home-based businesses in Parker so we can better support and celebrate all the creativity happening right here in our community.

Take the survey today:
slatecommunications.formstack.com/forms/parker_home_business_survey

FOOD THAT NOURISHES: VIBE FOODS


Interior of Vibe Foods restaurant - with ordering counter and display coolers of beverages
Vibe Foods employee pours green smoothie into branded cup
Portrait of Shannon Weston, Founder of Vibe Foods

Shannon Weston
Founder of Vibe Foods

At Vibe Foods in Parker, health and hospitality go hand in hand. “What we're doing is truly a mission,” said Founder and Owner Shannon Weston.

“We don't shortcut anything. I would never serve food to anybody that I wouldn't give to my family all day, every day, and feel good about.” - Shannon Weston, Founder of Vibe Foods

Vibe Foods stands out in the wellness space by offering nutrient-dense, thoughtfully crafted items—and by making health approachable. “We’re a lot different from most health food restaurants,” Weston said. “If customers have questions, we want to be able to answer them clearly, point them to what they might like, and make sure their food is delicious.”

Utilizing a Business Improvement Grant (BIG) from Parker Economic Development, Vibe Foods is expanding and launching an e-commerce site for their popular baked goods, broths, and powders. “Parker has been amazing,” she said. “Everyone’s so open, so supportive.” But, Weston says the true value is in helping customers, “That’s really what is so gratifying— watching people feel better.”

18320 Cottonwood Dr Unit A, Parker, CO 80138

Mon-Sun 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

 

CELEBRATING 1 YEAR: CONVICT COFFEE


CONVICT COFFEE

19519 E Parker Square Dr, Parker, CO 80134 

Mon-Fri: 6 a.m. - 8 p.m. | Sat-Sun: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. 

convictcoffeeco.com

Cheers to one year of Convict Coffee in Parker! Since opening, they’ve brewed more than great coffee, they’ve brewed community impact through their support of local non-profits, focus on local ingredients, and mission to support second chances. Here’s to many more years of purpose-driven coffee!  

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Reflecting on 2024